|
Brendan Rodgers hailed Christian Benteke after the Liverpool striker marked his home debut with the winning goal against Bournemouth. Benteke, who cost £32.5 million in a move from Aston Villa, opened his Liverpool account with a close-range finish as Rodgers' team began the season with back-to-back wins. And the Northern Irishman thinks the second-most expensive signing in Liverpool's history will bring much more than just goals. "I thought he was a real handful," Rodgers said in a news conference. "His hold-up play is outstanding and has a wonderful touch for a big man. He can help the ball on to others. "There was one moment when the ball came into the box and because of his strength and power, he made a chance for [Philippe] Coutinho. In my time that has never really happened. "Because of his physicality, he keeps the ball alive in a dangerous area. That will really help. It gives us a different dimension." Rodgers was delighted with the way his side have begun the campaign, even though he admitted performances could be better. "I am pleased we have got two wins, six points and two clean sheets," he added. "I think it is just time. I think the team will grow. It is about having that spirit and togetherness to get results." Rodgers replaced new captain Jordan Henderson early in the second half and revealed the England international has a foot injury. "He had a problem with the bottom of his foot," he said. "He hadn't trained for part of the week and was taking some painkillers. He did ever so well to even be out on the field. He did great in the time he was on but he was in too much pain."
|
